The average Australian hosehold uses up to 240,000 litres of water each year - or about 300 litres per person per day. Households can inprove water efficiency by using water-friendly appliances and practices which reduce water use.

Reusing water can be as simple as pouring the water used to wash your veggies out onto the garden.

Rainwater and stormwater.

Every year thousands of litres of water fall on our roofs and outdoor areas. In urban areas most of this stormwater runs off into the drains, creeks, rivers and seas. Stormwater canhave detrimental effects on these receiving waters, carrying litter and pollution as well as causing flooding and erosion. Retaining this water at our homes will reduce the impact of stormwater, and provide an alternative supply of water to mainswater, thereby reducing water consumption.

Using energy to save water.

Many of the technologies you can see in the diagram above use electricity. Producing and using electricity can use large amounts of resources such as coal, water and many manufactured materials. Should we be saving water at any cost? Or is there a point at which the amount of electricity, materials and even water consumed means that overall, the benefit to the environment is lost?

Behaviour or technology.

Water efficient technology can save a lot of water. But most water wastage occurs through frequency and duration of water use - not through inefficient technology. Large exotic gardens and lawns; frequent use of appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers when half full; and lengthy showers are just a few examples of how we waste water. Changing behaviours and respecting the value of our natural resources is as important as technology in achieving water savings.

The CERES EcoHouse.

The diagram above is based on the EcoHouse at CERES. The house is a working example of sustainable living. It demonstrates measures and devices to reduce water consumption, energy consumption and waste production, as well as increase biodiversity. Come and visit CERES and the EcoHouse to experience these many features firsthand.